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Take care to figure out the proper size for your bike�s frame. A bad fit will result in discomfort that is difficult or even impossible to correct.
Good advice above. A bike shop is really your best bet to find something that fits you and your needs. Other than the rigid fat bike (really a 29plus - not quite a fat bike) I got several years ago I have always bought from my LBS. I got that from BikesDirect and did work out really well for me (0 problems after 30 hours of very rocky/rooty trails). If you do go mail order you will likely need (or at least greatly benefit) from a setup/tuning from a bike shop. Best to arrange for that before buying the bike - some bike shops wouldn't be all that excited to do it - they struggle with internet competition just like the motorcycle shops. But they probably make more money on service than new sales so likely not a problem for many.Two thoughts - 1 - One of the new things these days is a "gravel bike". It looks like a drop bar road bike, but it is set up to travel on rough roads etc. Might be an option - I don't know a lot about them but have heard good things. Some seem to come with new/odd comfort features like a seat post with built in flex and a bit of "suspension" built in to the handlebar to fork connection. 2 - If you don't need a huge range of gears consider a single chain ring on the front. Simpler, easier to tune and I find it more reliable. These days that will leave you with 10,11, or 12 gear choices. For my mountain bike that works out great - all I might miss is a little speed down a big hill to the trails...3 - Surly (mentioned above) is perhaps the "Guzzi" of bicycles. My wife likes her Surly Long Hall Trucker.Jim
Didn't know the metal made a difference in ride quality. I thought the frame choice was all about weight..I will look at metal framed bikes, weight probably isn't an issue since I won't be riding up hills or have to pack the bike up steps. I don't want to ride a cast iron bike, but lightest weight isn't the biggest concern for me.Gravel bikes is really what I think I want, wider tires for where I will ride. Not sure that I really disc brakes or carbon fork.Old Head